Honours course

Honours in Political Science and International Relations

Honours in Political Science and International Relations provides an opportunity to study political science and international relations in both greater depth and greater scope than is possible in earlier undergraduate years. It is designed to develop an enhanced knowledge base in the discipline, together with analytical and research skills appropriate to the advanced study of politics. If you wish to have the option of postgraduate research, an honours degree (or its equivalent) is essential. Honours is academically rather than vocationally oriented, yet many students have found this degree to be useful in their subsequent careers. Employers are increasingly aware that an honours degree signifies a higher level of attainment than a three-year degree. For those of our recent graduates who have gone to work for Commonwealth and State public services, parliament or members of parliament, non-governmental organisations, public relations agencies and media organisations, the degree has proven of direct vocational use.

Outcomes: Students are able to (1) demonstrate coherent and advanced knowledge of key theories and methods in political science and international relations; (2) have cognitive and technical skills to demonstrate a broad understanding of empirical and theoretical concepts in political science and international relations; (3) demonstrate ability to critically review, analyse, consolidate and synthesise knowledge with with intellectual independence to provide understanding of complex problems and issues in political science and international relations; (4) identify, plan and implement an original research project in political science and international relations, including appropriate ethical issues; and (5) produce high-level oral and written communication appropriate to the discipline.

Entry requirements: the equivalent of a UWA weighted average mark of at least 70 per cent in the Level 3 units of the Political Science and International Relations major.

Intake periods: Beginning of year and mid-year (mid-year intake for part-time study only)

POLS8603 International Relations in the Asia–Pacific Region; POLS5631 International Relations of the Asia–Pacific: the Role of Major Powers; POLS5632 Major Issues and Regional Organisations in the Asia–Pacific